U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Civics Practice Test

The Supreme Court of the United States is composed of nine justices. This number has been established since 1869 and has remained unchanged since then. The justices include one Chief Justice and eight Associate Justices. The purpose of having this specific number is to ensure a majority decision can be reached in case of divisive issues and to maintain a balance within the judicial system.

Each justice plays a crucial role in interpreting the Constitution, adjudicating federal laws, and resolving legal disputes that can have a significant impact on American society. The nine-member structure allows for a diverse range of opinions and interpretations, which is vital in providing thorough judicial review of cases brought before the Court.